Home Automation Info

In most homes the entertainment center(s) can represent a sizeable investment with a variety of equipment each having its own remote control. We define below the core requirements of controlling a single entertainment center, then discuss the optional requirement for distributing programming/media throughout the house, as well as controlling the theater room environment. We also present considerations for a media center component within the entertainment center.

Home Entertainment Center Control Core Requirements

One handheld remote control for all devices in the entertainment center. Like a universal remote, the system must have no more than one remote per entertainment center. This remote should initiate the following actions with a single key:
• Device power up/down sequences
• Play selection (CD, DVD, VHS, Cable, Satellite, AM/FM/XM Radio, digital media)
• Channel/volume control
• DVD/VCR/DVR control (play, pause, stop rewind, fast forward, eject)
• Setup for use karaoke machines, video game systems, or other special devices using the TV for display.

Home Entertainment Center Control Optional Requirements

• Simplified single button controls - in addition to handheld remote, in-wall buttons or touch panels are available to launch frequently used actions like "watch channel 12".
• Distributed multi-room audio system delivering simultaneous stereo streams to each room from a central entertainment center.
• Distributed multi-room video delivering simultaneous video streams (composite or component) to each room from a central entertainment center.
• System controls media distribution equipment: A/V Receiver, multi-tuner, multi-channel amplifier, audio matrix switch, video switcher, media server
• System controls room environment: motorized drapes, blinds, dimmers, projection screen
• Remote Personal Video Recorder control from the Internet (e.g. TIVO or Media Center)

Home Media Center Requirements/Considerations

• Digital media consolidation for: personal video recorder, home video, digital photographs, digital music, digitized CDs/DVDs.
• Central media management, capture, edit, DVD/CD creation and distribution point
• Want PC functionality or a proprietary media center solution?
• Want a Web server for remote control of system via the Internet?
• Must integrate with entertainment control system and/or the home data network?